Checklist of Amphibian Species and Identification
Guide

Imitator Salamander, Desmognathus imitator

Note: Dusky Salamanders (genus Desmognathus) are extremely
difficult to identify due to their highly varied patterns and coloration.
They can be distinguished from many other types of Lungless Salamanders by
the presence of a light line stretching from the corner of the mouth to the
eye. The patterns on these salamanders change with age and show a high degree
of variability both among individuals in a population and among different
areas of their range. If you find a specimen in the field first look at the
range maps in an identification guide to narrow your search to species found
in your area. Dusky Salamanders have aquatic larvae.

The Imitator Salamander is a small salamander attaining lengths
around 4 inches. They look very similar to the Jordan's Salamander with
their distinctive cheek patches of yellow, orange or sometimes a shade
of red. The cheek patch obscures the pale line stretching from the corner
of the mouth to the eye commonly found in Dusky Salamanders. The other
distinctive characteristic is the dorsal patterning of the undulating
lines down to the tail. Their tail is round in cross-section. The color
of the belly of the Imitator Salamander is generally a gray. They inhabit
a variety of moist habitats around streams, seepage areas and springs
where they are found under rocks and other moist litter on the forest
floor. The range of the Imitator Salamander is restricted to the the Great
Smoky Mountains National Park of Tennessee and North Carolina and limited
surrounding areas. They are found only in high mountains, from 3000 ft.
above sea level and higher.

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